Where to stay near Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern

This 6th-century cistern takes its name from an ancient church that once stood nearby, but it could easily have been named for its cathedral-like interior. There’s a steady thrum of water dripping from the vaulted brick ceiling, while hundreds of columns – 336 to be exact – reflect in the shallow pool below.

The Basilica Cistern lies beneath the busy streets of Istanbul’s Sarayburnu neighbourhood. Here are four of the best places to stay nearby.

Honey House Apartment

At Honey House Apartment, spacious studios are characterised by their neutral colour palette, wooden furniture and vintage pictures of the city. The open-plan sleeping and living area includes a double bed and two sofa beds, meaning up to five guests can stay comfortably. Each studio has two TVs, a well-equipped kitchenette and two modern bathrooms – both with oversized rain showers. From here, it’s only three minutes’ walk to the Basilica Cistern, and the Hagia Sophia is another couple of minutes from there. Along the way, look out for the House of Medusa, a restaurant that’s highly rated for traditional Turkish fare, think lentil soup and hummus, and its charming lantern-lit courtyard.

Istanbul Irini Seaview House

Given the name, it’s no surprise that Istanbul Irini Seaview House offers spectacular views. This three-storey house has a private roof terrace that looks out over the Sea of Marmara and the Princes’ Islands. Inside, bold design choices are abound: think a purple and yellow-themed room, or a red-laquered dresser against a black statement wall. There are two bedrooms and two luxurious bathrooms – one with a deep standalone bathtub that’s perfect for unwinding. On the second floor, the state-of-the-art kitchen includes everything from a steam oven to a juicer, and daily housekeeping means you don’t even have to do the dishes. When you step outside, wander northwards past the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia and you’ll reach the Basilica Cistern in around six minutes.

Gulhane Suites

A four-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern, Gulhane Suites blends self-catering accommodation with hotel services, like an on-site restaurant and a concierge. The apartments sleep up to four guests, in either one or two bedrooms. Neutral shades dominate the décor, while the occasional tasseled cushion or velvet bedspread adds an element of local flavour. If you want to cook at home, each suite has a modern kitchen and dining area. Step outside, though, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by restaurants and cafés. Try the nearby Istanbul Sweet Shop for mouthwatering honey-filled pastries, washed down with strong Turkish coffee.

Le Safran Suite

Le Safran is located on the southern edge of Gülhane Park, within a 4-minute walk of both the Basilica Cistern and the Hagia Sofia. This guest house is set in a wood-panelled building dating back to the late 1800s. From the grand, gilt-trimmed lobby, a spiral staircase sweeps up to the air-conditioned rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in rich earthy tones, with stuccoed ceilings and Persian rugs. Guests love the comfy beds, helpful staff and generous breakfast – including fresh fruit, eggs and crisp börek pastries stuffed with spinach and feta. There’s also tea and coffee available all day long, ideal for refuelling between sightseeing.